The Cavaliers add Larry Nance Jr. as a versatile frontcourt piece off the bench, designed to relieve Mobley and Allen and keep the unit functional when the starters rest. His floor-spreading shooting, hustle deflection, and stable decision-making help Cleveland maintain spacing and energy without a burst star power. Health is a concern, so expect a steady, understated impact rather than game-changing runs.

Kenny Atkinson reshaped the Cavaliers into a high-powered regular-season machine, turning Cleveland from 16th in offense to the league’s best. Mobley blossomed into an All-Star and Defensive Player of the Year, while Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland clicked as a dual-threat backcourt. The bigs pairing yielded staggering 120.8 offensive ratings and a clear path to elite execution, but the playoffs exposed gaps—tempo management, depth, and crunch-time discipline remain the next frontier as Atkinson faces six months to sculpt playoff-ready answers.

The challenge isn’t just sustaining offensive firepower; it’s translating that success into postseason credibility. After a 64-win run, questions linger about countering top defenses, empowering role players in tight games, and keeping stars from good regular-season habits when stakes rise. The Cavs must balance continuity with tactical tweaks, and six months isn’t long in the crucible of playoff preparation.

Cavaliers’ regular-season surge earns hype for NBA 2K26 as Donovan Mitchell leads the way at 93, while Evan Mobley and Jarrett Allen carry the frontline. Mobley’s 89 fuels debate after a Defensive Player of the Year run, with 2K prioritizing potential over current dominance. Ja Morant, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jokic, and others shape the top of the rankings, but Mobley’s two-way impact and Cavs’ strong home run pace raise questions about where 2K should land him this season.

The piece argues Mobley deserves a 90+ given his All-NBA Second Team season, shooting strides, and defensive versatility, while Allen’s 84 (or even lower) is a talking point after playoff adjustments. It highlights how 2K’s ratings can spark fire in players and fantasy managers, especially as Pacers and Cavs face new competition and health dynamics in 2025-26.

Evan Mobley, the young star forward of the Cleveland Cavaliers, is setting his sights high for the future. Following an impressive season that included an All-Star selection and a spot in the MVP race, Mobley expressed confidence in his ability to secure the MVP award for the 2026-27 season. At just 24 years old, he has made significant strides, averaging 18.5 points, 9.3 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks per game last season, showcasing his versatility and effectiveness on both ends of the floor.

Mobley's development is crucial for the Cavaliers as they aim to build on last season's success. Surrounded by talented teammates like Donovan Mitchell and Darius Garland, Mobley is positioned well to enhance his impact on winning. Despite not being the primary offensive weapon, his efficiency has been remarkable, and with strong performances against formidable competitors, he is poised to become a leading candidate for MVP honors in the coming seasons.

As the NBA approaches the 2025-26 season, player salaries are reaching unprecedented levels, with Stephen Curry leading the pack at nearly $60 million. His enduring excellence and role in the Warriors' system underscore this lucrative contract. Star players like Anthony Davis and Giannis Antetokounmpo follow closely behind, each earning over $57 million, reflecting their elite performances and key roles on their respective teams. Meanwhile, Joel Embiid and Nikola Jokic also command lucrative deals, despite concerns over health for Embiid.

In addition, Jayson Tatum and Jimmy Butler are tied at just over $54 million, each reflecting their impact on championship-contending teams. As we delve deeper into the financial landscape of the NBA, it’s clear that these contracts not only reward talent but also signify the league's emphasis on superstar-driven dynamics. This trend is likely to shape team strategies, especially as players navigate health concerns and organizational expectations moving forward.